Recorder and cassette containing recording medium

ABSTRACT

A recording apparatus capable of recording data either in a current-used format or a new format on a recording medium accommodated in a current-used tape cassette or a new tape cassette. The recording apparatus comprises a first writing prohibition detection switch to be inserted to an discrimination hole formed on both cassettes and receded in accordance with an open/close state of a writing prohibition discrimination hole provided on the current-used cassette, a second writing prohibition detection switch to be receded in accordance with an open/close state of a writing prohibition discrimination hole formed in the new tape cassette, and a cassette type detection switch to be inserted to an discrimination hole formed in the new tape cassette and receded by a side surface of the current-used cassette. A control circuit discriminates a new tape cassette from the current-used tape cassette.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a recording apparatus for recordingdata to a cassette, such as a magnetic tape cassette accommodating amagnetic tape as a recording medium, and a recording mediumaccommodation cassette used therefor.

The present invention particularly relates to a recording medium fordiscriminating two types of cassettes for recording data in differentformats on a recording medium and performing data recording processingin accordance with the discriminated cassette, and a recording mediumaccommodation cassette used therefor.

BACKGOUND ART

In a recording/reproducing apparatus for recording data on a recordingmedium, such as a magnetic tape, accommodated in a recording mediumaccommodation cassette (hereinafter, simplified to a cassette) andreproducing data from the recording medium, it is preferable in terms ofdevelopment costs to divert a recording/reproducing apparatus and acassette of a current-used format as much as possible when developing arecording/reproducing apparatus for recording data in a new format on arecording medium and enabling to record and reproduce a magnetic taperecorded in the current-used format by using the recording/reproducingapparatus.

For example, when a size of a cassette for accommodating a magnetic tapefor recording in a new format is made the same as that of a cassette foraccommodating a magnetic tape for recording in the current-used format,costs on developing a cassette for accommodating a recording a magnetictape for recording in the new format can be reduced, and a workload indeveloping a new recording/reproducing apparatus can be reduced.

When a current-used cassette (a first cassette) and a new cassette (asecond cassette) are made to be the same size in a recording/reproducingapparatus capable of recording and reproducing the both, a mechanism fordiscriminating the new cassette from the current-used cassette becomesnecessary in the new recording/reproducing apparatus. Thus, a space forthis discrimination mechanism becomes necessary, which is liable to bean obstacle in diverting a current-used recording/reproducing apparatus.

Also, when the new cassette has the same size as that of thecurrent-used cassette, it is necessary to surely prevent erroneous eraseof data recorded in a recording medium accommodated in a new cassette bya current-used recording/reproducing apparatus for recording data in arecording medium accommodated in a current-used cassette and reproducingdata from the recording medium. Therefore, a new recording/reproducingapparatus is required to be able to discriminate a new cassette, bywhich data recorded on a recording medium is not erroneously erased by acurrent-used recording/reproducing apparatus.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

An object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatuscapable of discriminating the first cassette from the second cassettehaving the same shape and size as those of the first cassette, recordingdata in a first format in a first recording medium accommodated in thefirst cassette, and recording data in a second format in a secondrecording medium accommodated in the second cassette.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a recordingapparatus capable of using both of the first cassette and the secondcassette as explained above, wherein data recorded in one format on arecording medium is not erroneously erased by the other format.

Still another object of the present invention is to make such arecording apparatus compact.

Furthermore, the present invention is to provide a recording mediumaccommodation cassette applicable to the above recording apparatus.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provideda recording apparatus for discriminating whether a set cassetteaccommodating a recording medium is in a first cassette for recordingdata in a first format or a second cassette for recording data in asecond format, detecting whether it is possible to record data on saidrecording medium accommodated in the discriminated cassette, andrecording data in a format in accordance with the discriminated cassetteon said recording medium when recordable, comprising a cassette typedetection means for detecting whether said first cassette or said secondcassette; a first writing prohibition detection means for detectingwhether or not to permit to record data in the first format on saidrecording medium accommodated in said first cassette or said secondcassette; a second writing prohibition detection means for detectingwhether or not to record data in the second format on said recordingmedium accommodated in said first cassette or second cassette; a controlmeans; and a data recording means.

The control means discriminates whether a cassette set in the recordingapparatus is said first cassette or said second cassette from adetection signal of said cassette type detection means, performing datarecording on said recording medium in the first format via said datarecording means in the case where a detection signal of said firstwriting prohibition means permits to write data on said recording mediumwhen said first cassette is set, and performing data recording on saidrecording medium in the second format via said data recording means inthe case where a detection signal of said second writing prohibitionmeans permits to write data on said recording medium when said secondcassette is set.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provideda recording medium accommodation cassette, having the same dimensions asthose of a first recording medium accommodation cassette foraccommodating a recording medium to be recorded data in a first format,characterized by comprising a first discrimination hole provided at thesame position as a writing prohibition setting means provided to saidfirst cassette, having a writing prohibition state; and a discriminationmeans for discriminating from said first cassette and indicatingpermission and prohibition of writing to said recording mediumaccommodation cassette.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view of the schematic configuration of arecording/reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are sectional views as an example of a relationshipof a partial section of a tape cassette (a current-used tape cassette)accommodating a magnetic tape wherein data is recorded in a current-usedformat and a detection switch contacting the current-used tape cassettein a first embodiment of the present invention, wherein FIG. 2A is aview showing a state of permitting data writing in the current-used tapecassette, and FIG. 2B is a view showing a state of prohibiting datawriting in the current-used tape cassette.

FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are sectional views as an example of a relationshipof a partial section of a tape cassette (a new tape cassette)accommodating a magnetic tape 51 wherein data is recorded in a new(second) format and a detection switch contacting the new tape cassette,wherein FIG. 3A shows a state of permitting data writing in the new tapecassette, and FIG. 3B is a view showing a state of prohibiting datawriting in the new tape cassette.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing operations of a first embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 5 is a view showing the schematic configuration of arecording/reproducing apparatus according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are sectional views showing an example of anarrangement relationship of a partial section of the new tape cassette,a writing prohibition detection switch, a light emission element andlight reception elements, wherein FIG. 6A is a view showing a state ofpermitting data writing in the new tape cassette, and FIG. 6B is a viewshowing a state of prohibiting data writing in the new tape cassette.

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are sectional views showing an example of anarrangement relationship of a partial section of the new tape cassette,a writing prohibition detecting switch, a light emission element andlight reception elements, wherein FIG. 7A is a view showing a state ofpermitting data writing to the current-used tape cassette, and FIG. 7Bis a view showing a state of prohibiting data writing to thecurrent-used tape cassette.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing operations of the second embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 9 is a view showing the schematic configuration of arecording/reproducing apparatus according to a third embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view of an example of an arrangement of an outerappearance of a new tape cassette accommodating a magnetic tape whereindata is written in a new format (first format) and the writingprohibition detecting switch in the third embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 11 is a view showing data in a specific address in a maker optionregion on an IC memory in the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operations of the third embodiment of thepresent invention.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Below, best modes for carrying out the present invention will beexplained with reference to the drawings.

First Embodiment

A first embodiment of a recording/reproducing apparatus of the presentinvention will be explained with reference to FIG. 1, FIG. 2A, FIG. 2B,FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B and FIG. 4.

FIG. 1 is a view showing the schematic configuration of arecording/reproducing apparatus according to an embodiment of thepresent invention.

FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are sectional views as an example of a relationshipof a partial section of a tape cassette 50B (a current-used tapecassette 50B) accommodating a magnetic tape 51 wherein data is recordedin a current-used (first) format and a detection switches 10, 11 and 12contacting the current-used tape cassette 50B. FIG. 2A is a view showinga state of permitting data writing in the current-used tape cassette50B, and FIG. 2B is a view showing a state of prohibiting data writingin the current-used tape cassette.

The tape cassette 50B accommodating the magnetic tape 51 wherein data isrecorded in the current-used format will be called a current-used tapecassette 50B.

FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B are sectional views as an example showing arelationship of a partial section of a tape cassette 50A (a new tapecassette 50A) accommodating a magnetic tape 51 wherein data is recordedin a new (second) format and a detection switches 10, 11 and 12contacting the new tape cassette 50A. FIG. 3A shows a state ofpermitting data writing in the new tape cassette 50A, and FIG. 3B is aview showing a state of prohibiting data writing in the new tapecassette 50A.

The recording/reproducing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 is mounted with atape cassette 50 accommodating two reels 50 a and 50 b wound with themagnetic tape 51, and the recording/reproducing apparatus 1 performsrecording of data on the magnetic tape 51 or reading (reproducing) ofdata from the magnetic tape 51 by running the magnetic tape 51.

Also, it is assumed that the recording/reproducing apparatus 1 recordsdata on the magnetic tape 51, data read from the magnetic tape 51comprises data in the first format and data in the second format beingdifferent to each other, the first format is the conventionally existingcurrent-used format and the second format is the newly created newformat.

The tape cassette 50B (current-used tape cassette 50B) accommodating themagnetic tape 51 wherein data is recorded in the current-used format andthe tape cassette 50A (new tape cassette 50A) accommodating the magnetictape 51 wherein data is recorded in the new format correspond to thetape cassette 50. The current-used tape cassette 50B and the new tapecassette 51A have the same outer appearance and the same dimensions(size).

In FIG. 1, the recording/reproducing apparatus 1 comprises a rotationdrum 2, a magnetic recording/reproducing circuit 3, a control circuit 5,a second writing prohibition detection switch 10, a cassette typedetection switch 11 and a first writing prohibition detection switch 12.

The rotation drum 2 is provided with two magnetic heads 2 a and 2 barranged along the circumference away by 180° from each other androtated by a not shown motor. The magnetic tape 51 contacts the outercircumference of the rotation drum while running and data is written onthe magnetic tape 51 by the magnetic heads 2 a and 2 b in accordancewith a drive current output from the magnetic recording/reproducingcircuit 3, or data recorded on the magnetic tape 51 is read by themagnetic heads 2 a and 2 b and reproduced by the magneticrecording/reproducing circuit 3.

The magnetic recording/reproducing circuit 3 outputs a drive current inaccordance with data to be recorded on the magnetic tape 51 or reproducedata recorded on the magnetic tape 51 from signals detected by themagnetic heads 2 a and 2 b.

The detection switches 10, 11 and 12 are arranged so as to be able tocontact a side surface of the tape cassette 50 and placed on a base 15of the recording/reproducing apparatus 1 at predetermined intervals. Thedetection switches 10, 11 and 12 are respectively provided withdetection pins 10 a, 11 a and 12 a provided so as to be able to be takenin and out from the detection switches 10, 11 and 12 and outputdetection signals 10 s, 11 s and 12 s to the control circuit 5 inaccordance with the in/out state of the detection pins 10 a, 11 a and 12a.

While the details will be explained later on, the first writingprohibition detection switch 12 is a switch for detecting permission orprohibition of data writing in the current-used format on the magnetictape 51 accommodated in the current-used tape cassette 50B. The secondwriting prohibition detection switch 10 is a switch for detectingpermission or prohibition of data writing in new format on the magnetictape 51 accommodated in the new tape cassette 50A. The cassette typedetection switch 11 is a switch for detecting whether a cassette is anew tape cassette 50A or a current-used tape cassette 50B.

The control circuit 5 totally controls operations of therecording/reproducing apparatus 1. For example, the control circuit 5controls operations of the magnetic recording/reproducing circuit 3, arunning system of the magnetic tape 51 and a drive system of therotation drum 2, etc. Also, the control circuit 5 receives as inputs thedetection signals 10 s, 11 s and 12 s of the detection switches 10, 11and 12 and controls to permit or prohibit data writing on the magnetictape 51 accommodated in the tape cassette 50 (a current-used tapecassette 50B or a new tape cassette 50A) based on the states of thedetection signals 10 s, 11 s and 12 s.

As shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B, the tape cassette 50B (current-usedtape cassette 50B) wherein data is recorded in the current-used formaton the magnetic tape 51 is provided with a writing prohibitiondiscrimination hole 50Bh on a side surface contacting (positioned by)the first writing prohibition detection switch 12.

The writing prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh has a cap 50Bf foropening and closing the writing prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh. Inthe case of prohibiting data writing for prohibiting data writing on themagnetic tape 51 accommodated in the current-used tape cassette 50B(hereinafter, referred to as “data writing to the current-used tapecassette” for simplification), the cap Bf opens the writing prohibitiondiscrimination hole 50Bh as shown in FIG. 2B, while in the case ofpermitting data writing to the current-used tape cassette 50B, the cap50Bf closes the writing prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh as shown inFIG. 2A. The cap 50Bf may be anything as far as it prohibits insertionof the pin 12 a of the first writing prohibition detection switch 12 tothe writing prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh and may be, forexample, a tape, a putty for plugging the writing prohibitiondiscrimination hole 50Bh or a plastic plug.

As shown in FIG. 2A, when the current-used tape cassette 50B is in thestate of permitting writing, the detection pin 12 a of the first writingprohibition detection switch 12 contacts the cap 50Bf and is pressed soas to be in a state of not protruding (receded state) from the firstwriting prohibition detection switch 12. As shown in FIG. 2B, in thewriting prohibition state, the detection pin 12 a of the first writingprohibition detection switch 12 extends to be inserted into the writingprohibition discrimination hole 50Bh , and the detection pin 12 abecomes a projected state (a protruded state) from the first writingprohibition detection switch 12.

The side surface of the current-used tape cassette 50B that contacts thesecond writing prohibition detection switch 10 and the cassette typedetection switch 11 is flat. Therefore, the detection pin 10 a of thesecond writing prohibition detection switch 10 and the detection pin 11a of the cassette type detection switch 11 are in the receded stateregardless of being permitted or prohibited to write to the current-usedtape cassette 50B.

As shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, the new tape cassette 50A accommodatingthe magnetic tape 51 wherein data is recorded in a new format isprovided with a third discrimination hole 50Ah 3 on a side surfacepositioned at (contacting) the first writing prohibition detectionswitch 12, a second discrimination hole 50Ah 2 on a side surfacecontacting the cassette type detection switch 11, and a firstdiscrimination hole 50Ah 1 on a side surface contacting the secondwriting prohibition detection switch 10.

The outer appearance, size and material of the new tape cassette 50A arethe same as those of the 50B. For example, the 50B and the new tapecassette 50A are made by a plastic resin.

The third discrimination hole 50Ah 3 is formed at the same position asthe writing prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh of the current-usedtape cassette 50B illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B. Since the thirddiscrimination hole 50Ah 3 of the new tape cassette 50A is always open,the new tape cassette 50A is in the data writing prohibited state in thesame way as data writing prohibited state of the current-used tapecassette 50B. Accordingly, when a new tape cassette 50A is mounted inthe current-used recording/reproducing apparatus for recording andreproducing current-used tape cassette 50B, a control circuit 5 in thecurrent-used recording/reproducing apparatus always identifies that thenew tape cassette 50A is in the writing prohibited state.

The detection pin 11 a of the cassette type detection switch 11 isinserted to the second discrimination hole 50Ah 2. Thus, when thedetection signal 11 s of the cassette type detection switch 11 isidentified in the control circuit 5, it is possible to discriminatebetween a current-used tape cassette 50B and a new tape cassette 50A.

The first discrimination hole 50Ah 1 is a hole for identifyingprohibition of data writing to the new tape cassette 50A. As shown inFIG. 3A, the first discrimination hole 50Ah 1 is closed with a cap 50Afwhen prohibited to write data to the new tape cassette 50A. Therefore,the detection pin 10 a of the second writing prohibition detectionswitch 10 contacts the cap 50Af and pressed to be in a receded state inthe second writing prohibition detection switch 10. As shown in FIG. 3B,the first discrimination hole 50Ah 1 is open because a cap 50Af does notexist when prohibited to write to the new tape cassette 50A. Therefore,the detection pin 10 a of the second writing prohibition detectionswitch 10 becomes a state of inserted to the first discrimination hole50Ah 1. The cap 50Af is made by the same material as that of the cap50Bf.

With reference to FIG. 4, operations of the first writing prohibitiondetection switch 12, the second writing prohibition detection switch 10,cassette type detection switch 11 and the control circuit 5 will beexplained.

Step 1: The control circuit 5 of the recording/reproducing apparatus 1identifies the tape cassette 50 as a current-used tape cassette 50B whenthe detection pin 11 a of the cassette type detection switch 11 is inthe receded state and the signal 11 s of the cassette type detectionswitch 11 is “1”, for example, as shown in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B,inversely, identifies the tape cassette 50 as a new tape cassette 50Awhen the detection pin 11 a of the cassette type detection switch 11 isinserted to the second discrimination hole 50Ah 2 and the signal 11 s ofthe cassette type detection switch 11 is “0” as illustrated in FIG. 3Aand FIG. 3B.

Steps 2 to 4: When identifying that the cassette is a current-used tapecassette 50B, the control circuit 5 receives as an input a detectionsignal 12 s of the first writing prohibition detection switch 12,performs writing processing in the current-used (first) format on themagnetic tape 51 accommodated in the current-used tape cassette 50B whenthe detection pin 12 a is in a receded state, while when the detectionpin 12 a is in an inverse state, prohibits to write on the magnetic tape51.

Steps 5 to 7: When identifying that the cassette is a new tape cassette50A, the control circuit 5 receives as an input a detection signal 10 sof the second writing prohibition detection switch 10, performs writingprocessing in the current-used (second) format on the magnetic tape 51accommodated in the new tape cassette 50A when the detection pin 10 a isin a receded state, while when the state of the detection pin 10 a isinverse, prohibits to write on the magnetic tape 51. Of course, when anew tape cassette 50A is detected, since the first writing prohibitiondetection switch 12 indicates to prohibit data writing in a current-used(first) format on the magnetic tape 51, data writing in a current-usedformat on the magnetic tape 51 is prohibited. Accordingly, even when anew tape cassette 50A is set to the current-used recording/reproducingapparatus, erroneous data writing in the first format is not performedon the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the new tape cassette 50A.

As explained above, the control circuit 5 controls the magneticrecording/reproducing circuit 3 so that data recording is performed onthe magnetic tape 51 in a format in accordance with the cassettediscrimination state, that is, in a new (second) format or in acurrent-used (first) format. The rotation drum of the magneticrecording/reproducing circuit 3 is driven in accordance with the controlby the control circuit 5, so that data is recorded in a desired formaton the magnetic tape 51.

According to the first embodiment, by providing the third discriminationhole 50Ah 3 on the new tape cassette 50A at the same position as thewriting prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh formed on the current-usedtape cassette 50B, recorded contents on the magnetic tape 51 set in thenew tape cassette 50A is not erroneously erased by the current-usedformat.

Also, in addition to the third discrimination hole 50Ah 3, by providinga second discrimination hole 50Ah 2 for enabling discrimination from acurrent-used tape cassette 50B, a first discrimination hole 50Ah 1 forsetting permission or prohibition of data writing in the second formaton the new tape cassette 50A, a cap 50Af for opening and closing thefirst discrimination hole 50Ah 1, and providing on the base 15 of therecording/reproducing apparatus 1 detection switches 10, 11 and 12 fordetecting states of the discrimination holes 50Ah 1, 50Ah 2 and 50Ah 3,it is possible to record in the current-used format on the current-usedtape cassette 50B and to record data in the new (second) format in thenew tape cassette 50A.

Second Embodiment

A second embodiment of a recording/reproducing apparatus of the presentinvention will be explained with reference to FIG. 5, FIG. 6A, FIG. 6B,FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B and FIG. 8.

FIG. 5 is a view showing the schematic configuration of therecording/reproducing apparatus according to the second embodiment ofthe present invention. In FIG. 4, same reference numbers are used forthe same components as those in the recording/reproducing apparatus 1according to the first embodiment.

Different points of the recording/reproducing apparatus 1A of the secondembodiment shown in FIG. 5 from the recording/reproducing apparatus 1according to the first embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 are that therecording/reproducing apparatus 1A does not have the second writingprohibition detection switch 10 and the cassette type detection switch11, but has only a writing prohibition detection switch 12 and isprovided with a light emission element and light reception elements 21and 22.

The light emission element 20, the light reception elements 21 and 22and the writing prohibition detection switch 12 are provided on the base15 of the recording/reproducing apparatus 1A at positions illustrated inFIG. 6A, FIG. 6B, FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B.

The writing prohibition detection switch 12 is a switch for detectingwhether it is permitted or prohibited to write data in a current-usedformat on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the current-used tapecassette 50B in the same way as in the case of the first embodiment.

The light reception element 21 is an element for detecting whether it ispermitted or prohibited to write data in a new format on the magnetictape 51 accommodated in the new tape cassette 50C as same as the secondwriting prohibition detection switch 10. The second light receptionelement 22 is an element for discriminating between the current-usedtape cassette 50B and the new tape cassette 50C as same as the cassettetype detection switch 11. Namely, in the recording/reproducing apparatus1A of the second embodiment, instead of the second writing prohibitiondetection switch 10 and the cassette type detection switch 11,permission or prohibition of data writing in the second format anddiscrimination of cassettes are detected optically.

The light emission element 20 is composed of a light emitting diode andlaser, etc. Below, a case of a light emitting diode (LED) as the lightemission element 20 will be explained. Of course, a laser can be alsoused as the light emission element 20. The light emission element 20 isarranged at a predetermined position on the tape cassette 50 (acurrent-used tape cassette 50B or a new tape cassette 50C) and emits anLED light L to the tape cassette 50. The light emission element 20 isdriven by a control device 5.

The light reception elements 21 and 22 are arranged at predeterminedpositions on the tape cassette 50. When the tape cassette 50 has ahigher format (in the case of the new tape cassette 50C), one of thelight reception elements 21 and 22 receives an LED light L output fromthe light emission element 20. Which of the light reception elements 21and 22 receives the LED light L is decided in accordance with a writingprohibition state of the new tape cassette 50C. Note that aconfiguration example of the new tape cassette 50C will be explainedlater on.

When the light reception elements 21 and 22 receive the LED light L, itis converted to an electric signal, and detection signals 21 s and 22 sare respectively output to the control circuit 5.

FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B are sectional views showing an example of anarrangement relationship of a partial section of the new tape cassette50C, a writing prohibition detection switch 12, a light emission element20 and light reception elements 21 and 22, wherein FIG. 6A is a viewshowing a state of permitting data writing to the new tape cassette 50A,and FIG. 6B is a view showing a state of prohibiting data writing to thenew tape cassette 50A.

As shown in FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, the new tape cassette 50C is providedwith an discrimination hole 50Ch 3 on a side surface contacting thefirst writing prohibition detection switch 12. Also, a light incidenthole 50Ca formed on a side surface facing to the light emission element20, a first emission hole 50Ch 1 formed on a side surface facing to thelight reception element 21, a second emission hole 50Ch 2 formed on aside surface facing to the light reception element 22, and a slidemember 50Cp for sliding a reflection member 50Cm are provided.

The new tape cassette 50C other than the light incident hole 50Ca , thefirst emission hole 50Ch 1 and the second emission hole 50Ch 2 providedon the new tape cassette 50C is formed, for example, by a plastic resinwhich is opaque.

The discrimination hole 50Ch 3 is formed at the same position as thewriting prohibition discrimination hole 50Bh formed on the current-usedtape cassette 50B illustrated in FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B and hasapproximately the same shape with that of the writing prohibitiondiscrimination hole 50Bh.

The light incident hole 50Ca introduces the LED light L output from thelight emission element 20 into the new tape cassette 50C, so that itirradiates a reflection surface 50Cma of the reflection member 50Cm.

The reflection member 50Cm is fixed to the slide member 50Cp. Thereflection member 50Cm deflects the direction of the incident LED lightL to the substantially vertical direction by the reflection surface50Cma.

The slide member 50Cp is provided being able to move in the directionsof arrows A1 and A2 and has an operation portion 50Cpa projectingoutside of the new tape cassette 50C.

The slide member 50Cp sets to permit data writing to the new tapecassette 50C when moved in the arrow A1 direction, while sets toprohibit data writing to the new tape cassette 50C when moved in thearrow A2 direction.

The emission hole 50Ch 1 is arranged above the light reception element21 and guides the LED light L reflected on the reflection surface 50Cmaof the reflection member 50Cm to the light reception element 21.

The emission hole 50Ch 2 is arranged above the light receiving element21 and guides the LED light L reflected on the reflection surface 50Cmaof the reflection member 50Cm to the light reception element 22.

As shown in FIG. 6A, the operation portion 50Cpa of the slide member50Cp is moved in the arrow A1 direction. This position is a position ofsetting to permit writing to the new tape cassette 50C. At this time,the reflection surface 50Cma of the reflection member 50Cm positionsabove the emission hole 50Ch 1. As a result, the LED light L irradiatesthe light reception element 21.

As shown in FIG. 6B, the operation portion 50Cpa of the slide member50Cp is moved in the arrow A2 direction. This position is a position ofsetting to prohibit writing to the new tape cassette 50C. At this time,the reflection surface 50Cma of the reflection member 50Cm positionsabove the emission hole 50Cha . As a result, the LED light L irradiatesthe light reception element 22.

FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are sectional views showing an example of anarrangement relationship of the first writing prohibition detectionswitch 12 and the light reception elements 21 and 22 of the current-usedtape cassette 50B, wherein FIG. 7A is a view showing a state ofpermitting data writing to the current-used tape cassette 50B, and FIG.7B is a view showing a state of prohibiting data writing to thecurrent-used tape cassette 50B.

Note that the outer appearance configuration of the current-used tapecassette 50B is the same as the configuration of the current-used tapecassette 50B in the first embodiment.

As is understood from illustrations of FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B, the LEDlight L from the light emission element 20 is blocked by a side surfaceof the current-used tape cassette 50B facing to the light emissionelement 20, so that neither of the light receiving elements 21 nor 22 isirradiated.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of operations of the second embodiment.

Step 11: The control circuit 5 of the recording/reproducing apparatus 1Aidentifies as a new tape cassette 50C when either one of the lightreception elements 21 and 22 receives the LED L.

Step 12 to 13: The control circuit 5 judges that the new tape cassette50C is in a state of permitting data writing when the light receivingelement 21 receives the LED light L and controls the magneticrecording/reproducing circuit 3 so that data is recorded in the new(second) format on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the new tapecassette 50C.

Step 14 to 15: The control circuit 5 judges that the new tape cassette50C is in a state of prohibiting data writing when the light receivingelement 22 receives the LED light L and does not perform recording ofdata on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the new tape cassette 50C.

Step 16 to 18: The control circuit 5 identifies that a current-used tapecassette 50B is set in the recording/reproducing apparatus when neitherof the light reception elements 21 nor 22 receives the LED light L, andwhen detected that the first writing prohibition detection switch 12 isin the state of permitting writing, the control circuit 5 controls themagnetic recording/reproducing circuit 3 to perform writing of data inthe current-used format on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in thecurrent-used tape cassette 50B. When detected that the first writingprohibition detection switch 12 is in the state of prohibiting writing,the control circuit 5 does not perform data writing.

According to the second embodiment, by providing on the new tapecassette 50C the discrimination hole 50Ch 3 as same as the writingprohibition discrimination hole 50Bh formed on the current-used tapecassette 50B, recorded contents on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated inthe new tape cassette 50C is not erroneously erased by the current-usedformat.

Furthermore, the new tape cassette 50C is identified by whether or notthe light receiving elements 21 and 22 receives a light, and a holeformed on the tape cassette side, the second writing prohibitiondetection switch 10, the cassette detection switch 11, and othermechanisms and movable portions for identifying the new tape cassette50C in the writing prohibition state become unnecessary, so that amechanism for discriminating tape cassettes and detecting of writingprohibition can be simplified.

Third Embodiment

A recording/reproducing apparatus as a third embodiment of the presentinvention will be explained with reference to FIG. 9 to FIG. 12.

FIG. 9 is a view showing the schematic configuration of therecording/reproducing apparatus according to the third embodiment of thepresent invention.

In FIG. 9, the same reference numbers are used for the same componentsas those in the recording/reproducing apparatus 1 in the firstembodiment.

Different points of the configuration of the recording/reproducingapparatus 1C shown in FIG. 9 from the recording/reproducing apparatus 1according to the first embodiment are that the recording/reproducingapparatus 1B is not provided with the second writing prohibitiondetection switch 10 and the cassette detection switch 11 but providedwith a first writing prohibition detection switch 12.

The recording/reproducing apparatus 1B comprises a connection terminal30 connected to an IC memory 55 incorporated in a tape cassette 50 and amemory interface 6 connected to the connection terminal 30.

There is known a so called MIC (memory incorporated cassette), whereinan IC memory made by a non-volatile semiconductor memory, such as anEEPROM, is built in. The IC memory in the MIC stores a recorded content,title, date, time, message, recording format, and index information oftimer programming, etc. By reading the information stored in the ICmemory, the contents stored in the IC memory can be confirmed withoutreproducing a magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the tape cassette 50. Amaker option region is secured in the IC memory, on which a user canfreely record various data.

In the third embodiment, an explanation will be made on a premise thatthe IC memory is incorporated in a tape cassette for a higher format.

The connection terminal 30 is connected to a power source line 30 a, aserial data input line 30 b, a serial data output line 30 c and a groundline 30 d and connected to a memory interface 6.

The memory interface 6 for connecting the IC memory 55 to the ground andsupplying power to the IC memory 55 reads data recorded in the IC memory55 as serial data to the control circuit 5 and transmits data to berecorded in the IC memory 55 as serial data from the control circuit 5to the IC memory 55.

The control device 5 transmits data to be written in the IC memory 55 tothe memory interface 6 and receives data read from the IC memory 55 bythe memory interface 6.

FIG. 10 is a sectional view showing an example of a partial outerappearance of the new tape cassette 50D accommodating the magnetic tape51, wherein data is recorded in the new format (first format) and anarrangement of the first writing prohibition detection switch 12.

As shown in FIG. 10, the new tape cassette 50D is formed on a sidesurface facing to (contacting) the first writing prohibition detectionswitch 12 an discrimination hole 50Dh in the same way as the writingprohibition discrimination hole 50Bh formed on the current-used tapecassette 50B shown as an example in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B.

The new tape cassette 50D has entirely the same configuration as that ofthe current-used tape cassette 50B except that there is not a cap foropening or closing the discrimination hole 50Dh.

Recorded contents of the IC memory 55 incorporated in the new tapecassette 50D will be explained.

FIG. 11 is a view showing data in a specific address in the maker optionregion of the IC memory 55.

For example, assuming that the lowermost bit a₀ in an address “AAAA” hasinformation for setting to prohibit writing to the new tape cassette50D, writing is prohibited when the lowermost bit a₀ is “1” and writingis permitted when “0”.

Also, assuming that the lowermost bit b₀ in an address “BBBB” hasinformation for discriminating between the new tape cassette 50D andcurrent-used tape cassette 50B, data is recorded on the magnetic tape 51in the higher (first) format when the lowermost bit b₀ is “1” and in thecurrent-used (second) format when “0”.

Also, information of the lowermost bit a₀ of the address “AAAA” isrewritten in the recording/reproducing apparatus 1B, and information onthe lowermost bit b₀ of the address “BBBB” is written to “1” beforeshipping of the new tape cassette 50D for setting to prohibit erasing.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operations of a recording apparatus ofthe third embodiment.

Step S21: When a new tape cassette 50D having the above configuration isset in the recording/reproducing apparatus 1B, information in thelowermost bits a₀ and b₀ of the addresses “AAAA” and “BBBB” of the ICmemory 55 is transmitted to the control circuit 5 via the memoryinterface 6, so that the control circuit 5 receives the information asit is.

Step 22: The control circuit 5 identifies if it is a new tape cassette50D or a current-used tape cassette 50B from the information in thelowermost bit b₀ of the address “BBBB”.

Step 23 to 25: The control circuit 5 detects if it is prohibited towrite to the new tape cassette 50D from the information of the lowermostbit a₀ of the address “AAAA”.

When the information on the lowermost bit a₀ of the address “AAAA” is“0”, it indicates a writing permission state, so that the controlcircuit 5 performs data recording in the new format on the magnetic tape51 accommodated in the tape cassette 50D via the magneticrecording/reproducing circuit 3 and the rotation drum 2. When theinformation on the lowermost bit a₀ is “1”, the control circuit 5performs processing of prohibiting data writing.

Step 22, 26 to 28: When the current-used tape cassette 50B is set in therecording/reproducing apparatus 1B, the control circuit 5 identifiesthat it is a current-used tape cassette 50B from the information on thelowermost bit b₀ of the address “BBBB”. Then, the control circuit 5controls the magnetic recording/reproducing circuit 3 and the rotationdrum 2, so that data recording in the current-used format is performedon the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the current-used tape cassette50B in accordance with a state of a detection signal of the firstwriting prohibition detection switch 12. Namely, when the pin 12 a ofthe first writing prohibition detection switch 12 is in the recededstate, data writing processing in the current-used format is performed,while data writing is prohibited in an inverse case.

As explained above, according to the third embodiment, by storingdiscrimination information of a tape cassette and writing prohibitioninformation of a new tape cassette 50D in advance in the IC memory 55incorporated in the tape cassette 50 (a current-used tape cassette 50Bor a new tape cassette 50D) and detecting the information by the controlcircuit 5 of the recording/reproducing apparatus 1B, data recording onthe magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the new tape cassette 50D or datawriting on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated in the current-used tapecassette 50B can be performed.

Also, since the new tape cassette 50D is provided with a writingprohibition discrimination hole 50Dh, there is no erroneous erasing ofrewriting information recorded on the magnetic tape 51 accommodated inthe new tape cassette 50D by a current-used format.

Note that the recording/reproducing apparatuses explained in the aboveembodiments are configured to be able to record to both of a tapecassette wherein data is recorded in the new (second) format and a tapecassette wherein data is recorded in the current-used (first) format,but it can be also applied to a recording/reproducing apparatus capableof recording only to a tape cassette wherein data is recorded in the newformat. In this case, when a current-used tape cassette 50B is detectedin the recording/reproducing apparatus (control circuit 5), a tapecassette ejection mechanism (not shown) is driven by the control circuit5 and the current-used tape cassette 50B is automatically ejected fromthe recording/reproducing apparatus.

In the above embodiments, an explanation was made on the case where amagnetic tape was used as a recording medium and a tape cassette wasused as a cassette, but when applying the present invention to arecording apparatus, a magnetic disk as a recording medium and acassette for accommodating a magnetic disk as a cassette and otherrecording media and cassettes for accommodating the recording medium canbe adopted.

In the recording apparatus of the present invention, a cassette havingthe same shape and same dimensions as those of the current-used cassettecan be used, and data can be recorded in a recording medium accommodatedin either of the cassettes for recording data in the new format and inthe current-used format.

In the recording/reproducing apparatus of the present invention, themechanism for discriminating a cassette and the configuration areminimized.

According to the recording/reproducing apparatus of the presentinvention, data recorded in the new format on a recording medium is noterroneously erased by the current-used format by a current-usedrecording apparatus.

1. A recording apparatus for discriminating whether a set recordingmedium is in a first cassette for recording data in a first format or ina second cassette for recording data in a second format, comprising: acassette type detection means for detecting said first cassette or saidsecond cassette; a first writing prohibition detection means fordetecting whether to permit to record data in the first format on saidrecording medium accommodated in said first cassette or said secondcassette; a second writing prohibition detection means for detectingwhether to record data in the second format on said recording mediumaccommodated in said first cassette or second cassette; a control means;and a data recording means, wherein said control means discriminateswhether a cassette set in the recording apparatus is said first cassetteor said second cassette from a detection signal of said cassette typedetection means, performs data recording on said recording medium in thefirst format via said data recording means in the case where a detectionsignal of said first writing prohibition means permits to write data onsaid recording medium when said first cassette is set, and performs datarecording on said recording medium in the second format via said datarecording means in the case where a detection signal of said secondwriting prohibition means permits to write data on said recording mediumwhen said second cassette is set, wherein said first cassette and saidsecond cassette comprise a first hole for indicating whether said firstwriting prohibition detection means permits to record data in said firstformat on said recording medium, wherein said first writing prohibitiondetection means has a switch having a first pin able to be inserted tosaid first hole and outputs an on or off detection signal in accordancewith whether said first pin is inserted to said first hole, wherein saidfirst hole is closed when indicating permission of recording data insaid first format on said recording medium, so that said first pin ofsaid first writing prohibition detection means is prohibited to beinserted to said first hole, wherein said first hole is open whenindicating prohibition of recording data in said first format on saidrecording medium, so that said first pin of said first writingprohibition detection means is permitted to be inserted to said firsthole, wherein said cassette type detection means and said second writingprohibition detection means are first and second light receptionelements arranged by leaving a predetermined space, wherein a lightemission element for emitting a light able to be received by said firstand second light reception elements is further provided, wherein saidsecond cassette is formed a light incident hole for receiving anincident light from said light emission element and first and secondemission holes formed at positions corresponding to said two lightreception elements, wherein said second cassette comprises a deflectionmeans for deflecting a light introduced from said light emission elementto said light incident hole in the direction of said two light receptionelements and a moving means for deflecting the light introduced fromsaid light emission element to said light incident hole in the directionof one of said two light reception elements by moving the deflectionmeans, wherein said first cassette does not have said emission hole andproduced to be opaque, and wherein said control means identifies that asecond cassette is set in the recording apparatus when either of saidfirst and second light reception elements receives a light, and performsdata recording in the second format on said recording medium via saiddata recording means when said first light receiving element detectslight reception.
 2. A recording apparatus as set forth in claim 1,wherein: said second cassette comprises a second hole for indicatingthat it is a second cassette and a third hole for indicating whether topermit to record data in said second format on said recording medium;said first cassette is not formed said second hole at a part where saidsecond hole is formed on said second cassette, and said first cassetteis not formed said third hole at a part where said third hole is formedon said second cassette; said second writing prohibition detection meanshas a switch having a third pin able to be inserted to said third holeand outputs an on or off detection signal in accordance with whethersaid third pin is inserted to said third hole; said third hole is closedwhen indicating permission of recording data in said second format onsaid recording medium, so that the third pin of said second writingprohibition detection means is prohibited to be inserted to said thirdhole; said third hole is open when indicating prohibition of recordingdata in said second format on said recording medium, so that the thirdpin of said second writing prohibition detection means is permitted tobe inserted to said third hole; and said control means identifies thatsaid second cassette is set in the recording apparatus when receiving asan input a signal detecting that a second pin of said cassette typedetection means is inserted to said second hole, and identifies thatsaid first cassette is set in the recording apparatus when receiving asan input a signal detecting that said second pin of said cassette typedetection means is not inserted in said second hole, and when adetection signal of said second writing prohibition detection meanspermits to record data when said second cassette is set, data recordingin the second format is performed on said recording medium via said datarecording means.
 3. A recording apparatus as set forth in claim 1,wherein: said cassette type detection means and said second writingprohibition detection means are first data recorded on a first addressand a second data recorded on a second address in a semiconductor memoryinstalled in said first cassette and said second cassette; a readingmeans for reading said first address and second address recorded on saidsemiconductor memory is further provided; and said control meansidentifies a cassette set in the recording apparatus is a first cassettewhen said first data is on, and performs recording processing of data inthe second format when said second data is on.
 4. A recording mediumaccommodation cassette, having similar dimensions as those of a firstrecording medium accommodation cassette for accommodating a recordingmedium to be recorded data in a first format, comprising: a firstdiscrimination hole provided at the same position as a writingprohibition setting means provided to said first cassette, having awriting prohibition state; and a discrimination means for discriminatingfrom said first cassette and indicating permission and prohibition ofwriting to said recording medium accommodation cassette, wherein saiddiscrimination means comprises: a light incident hole to which a lightemitted from a recording apparatus is irradiated; a reflection memberfor reflecting said emitted light and selectively sliding between afirst position and a second position; a first emission hole for emittingsaid reflected light when said reflection member is slid to said firstposition; and a second emission hole for emitting said reflected lightwhen said reflection member is slid to said second position, and whereindiscrimination from said first cassette and permission or prohibition ofwriting to said recording medium accommodation cassette are indicated byfrom which of the first and second emission holes said light is emitted.5. A recording medium accommodation cassette as set forth in claim 4,further comprising: a second discrimination hole used for discriminatingfrom said first cassette; and a third discrimination hole for indicatingprohibition of writing to said recording medium accommodation cassetteby being selectively open or closed.